National Security

Our government has no more basic responsibility than providing for the safety and security of our citizens.

Americans must have complete confidence that all levels of government are working collaboratively to provide the highest level of security and protection. In Congress, David has worked hard to enhance Rhode Island’s emergency management response and preparedness programs, as well as homeland security capabilities.

We must acknowledge the toll repeated tours of duty have on the men and women who volunteer to serve our country in the armed forces. It should always be a priority to bring our troops home as soon as possible.

David has visited with Rhode Islanders stationed abroad, often in areas of great danger. He has done this to thank them for their service, to ensure they know how deeply we all appreciate the sacrifices they are making, and to hear directly from them about what needs to be done to help them do their jobs and stay safe. Hearing directly from Rhode Islanders on the front lines is more valuable than hours of testimony before a Congressional committee.

As we struggle to address the growing challenges around the world and respond to the ever-changing international and domestic threats, David strongly believes we do not need to sacrifice our constitutional right to privacy to protect our country from foreign and domestic threats.

That’s why David has been a strong advocate for reforming aspects of the National Security Agency’s (NSA) intelligence gathering operations. For example, David has strongly opposed the government’s bulk collection of telephone metadata under Section 215 of the Patriot Act and he has been a leader in addressing concerns related to the abuse of National Security Letters, by which the FBI can require companies to disclose customers’ banking, telephone, internet, and other personal information without any prior judicial review.

National security today depends, as it always has, on a comprehensive, balanced approach to the full range of national security challenges, from cyber-security to homegrown terrorism, from engagement with allies to combating destabilization abroad to ensuring we remain safe at home.